The first day of the 2025 MLB Draft concluded with notable surprises, as the Washington Nationals selected Eli Willits with the No. 1 overall pick. This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly as Willits is a young prep shortstop without a consensus as the top prospect in this year’s draft. The Nationals’ choice reflects a strategic approach in a draft characterized by uncertainty, especially after the recent firing of their general manager, Mike Rizzo.
The Seattle Mariners, on the other hand, celebrated their luck when Kade Anderson, the top-ranked player according to ESPN analyst Kiley McDaniel, fell to them at No. 3. This selection positions the Mariners favorably with a polished college pitcher who is expected to make a swift transition to the major leagues. The Los Angeles Angels opted for Tyler Bremner at No. 2, a pick that has drawn mixed reactions given that McDaniel had him ranked significantly lower at No. 18.
Unexpected Choices Spark Discussion
The decisions made by the Nationals and Angels have prompted significant discussion among baseball insiders. ESPN analysts Alden Gonzalez, Jesse Rogers, and David Schoenfield shared their thoughts on the draft’s first night. Gonzalez expressed surprise at the Nationals’ choice, noting that it was unexpected given the uncertainty surrounding their strategy. According to Gonzalez, interim general manager Mike DeBartolo endorsed Willits as the best hitter and fielder available, indicating a long-term vision that favors development over immediate impact.
Rogers echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the Nationals’ faith in a 17-year-old player may pay off in the long run, particularly as they seek to manage their budget for future selections. The strategy of opting for players who might sign below slot is a common tactic, allowing teams to allocate resources toward other promising prospects later in the draft.
The Angels’ selection of Bremner, a college arm, was also scrutinized. Rogers highlighted that while this could be a cost-saving move, it also raises questions about Bremner’s potential impact compared to other available talents like Anderson or Ethan Holliday, who was chosen by the Colorado Rockies at No. 4. This pick resonated with nostalgia, as Holliday is the son of former MLB star Matt Holliday.
Analyzing the First-Round Selections
The first round showcased a mix of risk and opportunity, particularly with the selections of high school players. Among them, Ethan Conrad surprised many by going 17th to the Chicago Cubs, despite concerns about his shoulder surgery. His early-season performance indicated potential, with a remarkable 1.238 OPS in 97 plate appearances. Analysts believe the scarcity of college hitters influenced this unexpected reach.
The Chicago White Sox made headlines by selecting Billy Carlson at No. 10. Despite a dismal 121-loss season, the Sox may have secured a top-five talent with Carlson’s defensive skills complementing their young pitching staff. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ choice of Seth Hernandez as the sixth pick raised eyebrows, with some analysts questioning the need for pitching over hitting in their lineup.
As the draft continues, the choices made on Day 1 will shape the future of these franchises. The unique strategies employed by teams like the Nationals and Angels reflect a broader trend in the MLB, where high school players are increasingly prioritized, signaling a shift towards athleticism and upside in player development.
The initial round of the 2025 MLB Draft sets an intriguing tone for the remainder of the event, emphasizing the importance of long-term strategy amidst the uncertainty permeating this year’s selections.
